### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **agapētós**, represented by `{{G27}}`, is defined as **beloved**, **dearly beloved**, or **dear**. Derived from ἀγαπάω (to love), it appears 62 times across 61 unique verses in the Bible. This term is consistently used to express profound affection, high regard, and a cherished relationship, both between God and humanity and among believers.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{G27}}` is used in several significant contexts. It is the term God the Father uses to describe His Son, Jesus, as heard in the voice from heaven: "This is my **beloved** Son, in whom I am well pleased" [[Matthew 3:17]]. It is also frequently used by the apostles as a term of endearment and exhortation when addressing fellow Christians, such as "my **beloved** brethren" [[1 Corinthians 15:58]]. The term also defines the identity of believers, who are described as "**beloved** of God" [[Romans 1:7]] and encouraged to live as "**dear** children" [[Ephesians 5:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller understanding of the concept of being beloved:
* `{{G25}}` **agapáō** (to love): This is the verb from which `{{G27}}` is derived, meaning "to love (in a social or moral sense)." It appears in direct connection, as believers are called **beloved** and then exhorted to **love** one another [[1 John 4:7]].
* `{{G26}}` **agápē** (love): The noun form, defined as "love, i.e. affection or benevolence." This word is foundational to the identity of the **beloved**, because **love** is of God [[1 John 4:7]].
* `{{G80}}` **adelphós** (brother): This term for a **brother** is often paired with `{{G27}}` to describe the deep familial bond within the Christian community, as in the address "my **beloved brethren**" [[James 2:5]].
* `{{G5207}}` **huiós** (son): As the word for **son**, it is essential for understanding the unique title given to Jesus by the Father, "my **beloved Son**" [[Mark 1:11]], establishing a divine model of this cherished relationship.
### Theological Significance
The theological importance of `{{G27}}` is profound, establishing key truths for believers.
* **Divine Affirmation:** The term is used by God the Father to uniquely identify Jesus Christ. In a voice from the "excellent glory," Jesus is declared to be the "**beloved** Son," in whom God is "well pleased" [[2 Peter 1:17]].
* **Identity in God:** Believers are identified as the "**beloved** of God" [[Romans 1:7]] and as His "**dear** children" [[Ephesians 5:1]]. This defines their new status and relationship with God through Christ.
* **Foundation for Exhortation:** The status of being **beloved** is frequently used as the basis for apostolic instruction. Paul urges the "dearly **beloved**" to flee from idolatry [[1 Corinthians 10:14]], and Peter warns the "**beloved**" to beware lest they fall from their stedfastness [[2 Peter 3:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G27}}` **agapētós** is more than a simple term of affection. It is a word rich with theological weight, used to define the singular relationship between God the Father and the Son, as well as the new identity of believers as cherished children of God. This status as "**beloved**" becomes the very foundation upon which the apostles build their exhortations for steadfastness, holiness, and love within the Christian community.
TRV